Melbourne: Puffing Billy Train & Penguin Parade Adventure

If you’re planning a day trip from Melbourne that combines scenic train journeys, wildlife encounters, and a visit to one of Australia’s most adorable natural spectacles, this tour might catch your eye. It’s a packed 12-hour experience designed for those who want a taste of the diverse landscapes and native animals that Victoria has to offer, without the hassle of organizing multiple trips themselves.

What we love about this tour? First, the chance to ride Puffing Billy, one of Australia’s oldest steam trains, is pretty special — there’s something nostalgic and calming about chugging through the lush greenery of the Dandenong Ranges. Second, finishing the day at the Penguin Parade at Phillip Island, watching those little creatures waddle ashore at sunset, is undeniably adorable and memorable.

However, the itinerary is quite full and busy, with some stops feeling rushed, especially if you’re hoping for relaxed, in-depth experiences. It’s a long day, around 12 hours, so if you’re not a fan of early mornings or lengthy bus rides, this might feel a bit tiring. Still, if you’re after a varied, well-rounded day exploring Victoria’s highlights, this tour is likely to suit you.

Ideal for travelers who want a snapshot of natural beauty, wildlife, and iconic Victorian experiences, all in one go. It’s especially good if you enjoy scenic train rides, coastal views, and are okay with a busy schedule.

Key Points

• Scenic Train Ride: Experience the historic Puffing Billy steam train through the Dandenong Ranges.
• Wildlife Encounters: Optional visit to Maru Koala and Animal Park for close wildlife interaction.
• Stunning Coastal Views: Take in the vistas at The Nobbies Viewpoint, overlooking the ocean.
• Penguin Parade: End your day with the adorable spectacle of penguins returning at sunset.
• Long but Rewarding: Expect a 12-hour day, packed with varied sights and activities.
• Group Size & Guides: Guided in English and Chinese, with knowledgeable guides helping you along the way.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Full Breakdown of the Tour

Starting Point & Pick-up

The adventure begins early in Melbourne, with pick-up options at several city locations, including major spots like Spencer Street and Melbourne Marriott Hotel. This flexibility is helpful if you’re staying centrally. The tour operator will confirm your exact pick-up details a day in advance, which helps make your day more predictable in the midst of a busy schedule.

Brighton Beach Rainbow Huts & Optional Wildlife Visit

Your first stop is Brighton Beach, famous for its colorful beach huts. Here, you get about 30 minutes to snap photos and soak in the vibrant seaside atmosphere. Depending on your train’s departure time, the stop might switch to a visit to Maru Koala and Animal Park, which is an optional activity at your own expense. While many travelers enjoy the chance to cuddle a koala or feed native animals, some reviews have raised concerns about animal welfare at the park, so it’s good to keep that in mind.

Journey Through the Dandenong Ranges

Next, your bus takes you through the lush Dandenong Ranges — a lush, green area often described as Australia’s natural treasure. The drive is about an hour, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy the scenery. The highlight here is the Puffing Billy Steam Train ride itself. Lasting approximately 45 minutes, this century-old train offers a charming glimpse into Australia’s railway heritage.

Many reviewers, like Sol from the UAE, express how much they enjoyed the train experience, calling it “amazing” and “worth every minute.” The ride is slow-paced, allowing you to take in the forested views, with plenty of photo opportunities. Some, however, felt the ride was a bit brief, especially if they’re train enthusiasts wanting more time on board.

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Wildlife & Animal Encounters

After the train, the tour continues with an 80-minute bus ride to Maru Koala and Animal Park (if included). This stop is ideal if you’re keen to get up close with native animals like koalas, kangaroos, and other Australian wildlife. But, as reviews highlight, it might feel a little rushed, and the animal welfare concerns some travelers express at this park are worth considering.

Coastal Views at The Nobbies

Following the wildlife stop, you’ll head to The Nobbies Viewpoint—a stunning stretch of rugged coastline. Here, you’ll admire sweeping sea vistas, rugged rocks, and the chance to see local seabirds. It’s a brief stop, about 30 minutes, but many find the scenery spectacular enough to make it worthwhile. It’s a peaceful contrast to the earlier forested train journey, offering a different kind of natural beauty.

Penguin Parade at Sunset

The final major highlight is the Penguin Parade at Phillip Island. Starting in the late afternoon or early evening, you’ll witness hundreds of little penguins emerging from the sea and waddling to their nests. This is, without doubt, the emotional core of the trip — seeing these tiny creatures in their natural environment at sunset.

The parade usually lasts about 1.5 hours. Travelers often mention how adorable and charming the penguins are. It’s a highlight for many, like Kanya from Australia, who describes the moment as “healing” to see the penguins coming ashore. Some reviews note that the penguins return quite late, so dressing warmly and being prepared for windy seaside conditions is a smart move.

What’s the Tour Experience Really Like?

The Good

One of the best aspects of this tour is the variety — from forested mountain scenery and historic trains to coastal cliffs and cute penguins. The guides are generally praised for their knowledgeable and friendly demeanor, helping you get the most out of each stop. The train ride alone is often cited as a highlight, with many travelers appreciating the nostalgia and peacefulness of steam travel.

The scenic views at The Nobbies are genuinely breathtaking, making the long bus rides worthwhile for the visual payoff. The penguin parade, however, is the real showstopper — many travelers say it’s a “must-see experience,” especially as the penguins appear at sunset, creating a magical atmosphere.

The Not-So-Good

The main challenge for some is the packed schedule. The tour covers a lot in one day, which means you might feel hurried, especially at the stops. For example, the Puffing Billy ride, while charming, is about 45 minutes, but some reviews point out it might feel shorter than expected.

Plus, the optional visit to Maru Koala Park isn’t included in the original price and might be somewhat underwhelming according to some reviews concerning animal welfare. If you’re not interested in this stop, it’s worth noting that you could feel like you’ve missed out or that the schedule is overly tight.

The penguin parade starts late in the evening, which can be tiring, especially if you’re not used to late nights or early mornings. Some travelers have expressed that they wished they had more time at the penguins or that they had been able to stay longer to enjoy the spectacle fully.

Practical Considerations

The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those over 75, due to the nature of the activities and mobility needs. If you’re traveling with children, the experience is generally family-friendly, especially since the penguins tend to captivate all ages.

The duration is long, about 12 hours, so good planning for snacks, water, and comfortable shoes is essential. The tour includes a live guide in English and Chinese, which is helpful if you speak either language. The cost is reasonable considering the number of stops and the inclusions, but as with all guided tours, some feel they could have more free time or longer at key stops.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves a mix of scenic train rides, wildlife encounters, and iconic Australian sights, then this tour offers a well-rounded day out. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see different landscapes and experiences without the hassle of planning each one.

For those who enjoy guided trips, the combination of live guides and organized transportation makes it straightforward, even if the schedule is tight. The penguin parade at sunset is a standout feature that could make this tour a highlight of your Melbourne visit.

However, if you’re after a more relaxed pace, or want to spend more time in each place, you might find this tour a bit rushed. It’s best suited to travelers who are okay with a full day and want a snapshot of Victoria’s natural beauty, wildlife, and history in one package.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not specifically tailored for families, children who enjoy wildlife and scenic train rides will find plenty to love. Just keep in mind the late penguin parade start and the long day.

How long is the train ride?
The Puffing Billy steam train ride lasts about 45 minutes, offering a peaceful stroll through the Dandenong Ranges.

Can I visit the Maru Koala and Animal Park?
Yes, but it’s an optional activity at your own expense. The schedule and interest vary, so consider whether you want to include it.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, water, and a jacket are recommended. The weather can be windy and unpredictable at the coast.

Are the guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both English and Chinese, which helps make the experience accessible for a wider audience.

Is the penguin parade worth it?
Absolutely. Many reviews describe it as a “magical” and “adorable” experience, perfect for animal lovers.

How long is the entire tour?
Approximately 12 hours, including pick-up, travel, and all activities.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

In Closing

This Melbourne day tour packs a lot of natural beauty, wildlife, and iconic experiences into a single day. It’s a great pick for travelers wanting a broad overview of Victoria’s highlights with minimal fuss. The combination of historic steam train rides, stunning coastal views, and the adorable penguin parade makes for a truly memorable outing.

While it’s not perfect — with some parts feeling a bit rushed and optional activities that might raise questions — overall, it offers good value and a well-organized way to see some of Australia’s best-loved sights. If you’re okay with a full, lively day and want to tick off a handful of major attractions, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

Happy travels, and enjoy your adventure in Victoria!

You can check availability for your dates here: